subject: Tips For Selecting Best Emr [print this page] The US healthcare industry is looking forward towards many technological and industry based implementations in the forth coming years. With the deadline fast approaching for ICD10, version 5010 Compliance, ACO program and EMR implementation, hospitals & healthcare organizations are busy working out plans for smooth transition of these ventures. ICD10, ACO and EMR implementations are being anticipated with the view to improve quality of healthcare in the US.
In line with this, EMR is also considered as an amazing product of technology that can help physicians provide better care to their patients and manage their clinical and administrative functions effectively. Though there is a strong need to implement electronic medical records and pressure from the government, there is resistance prevailing in the industry for adopting it, due to various reasons including high rate of implementation failure.
The first step in the successful implementation of EMR starts with selection of a right EMR system for the practice. Selection of a right system for the practice is not an easy task as wide range of electronic medical records softwares are available in the market.
Types of EMR:
Based on the technical feasibility, EMR is classified in to various types namely, SaaS Based, Client Based & Hybrid Model. Depending upon your practice requirements, you have to choose the best suiting EMR by consulting with the solution provider.
Tips for Selecting Best EMR:
1. Have your current and near future practice needs been defined?
Is your practice's record management methodology supported?
Does the EMR interface with your billing or practice management systems?
2. Before you purchase your EMR...
Compare a number of EMR systems
Focus on EMR systems that best fit your needs
3. Which EMR technology do you need?
A client-server EMR software or a web based EMR software solution
Does the EMR allow and support for practice growth
4. Can you get an EMR software demo?
Is it specialty specific?
Is it as easy to use on complex patient cases?
5. How complicated is the EMR to use?
Are the EMR document templates customizable?
Will the electronic medical record solution save your office staff time?
6. How easy is office implementation?
Easy and shared access among providers and staff
How disruptive implementation will be to your practice
7. What EMR features are supported?
Charge capture for billing?
Voice recognition
etc, etc, etc.
8. Is the EMR solution technologically stable, compatible and flexible?
Is the electronic medical record solution 'certification focused'?
Is it stay within HIPAA compliance for privacy standards and confidentiality?
9. What is the actual cost of electronic medical record ownership?
Cost for EMR hardware/software license, installation, training, upgrades and maintenance
Is there an EMR software efficiency cost savings from successful office implementation?
10. After you purchase your software system, what then?
Is there reliable continuing EMR software vendor support and training?
Are EMR customizations easily available?
Making the right EMR purchase the first time can be a positive experience! Keep in mind successful electronic medical record implementation will enhance your practice and improve patient care.
